In a heartbreaking incident at Murinas Bridge in Middle Ramu District, Madang Province, on January 1, 2024, Bobby Marau, a dedicated member of the Community Policing Unit (CPU), lost his life in a fatal traffic accident, as reported by Madang Provincial Police Commander Acting Superintendent, Robert Baim.
The unfortunate event unfolded at approximately 5:00 PM and involved a white Toyota Hiace 15-seater bus, owned by Mr. Snowi John of Ramu Sugar.
Damian Misob of Rempi village, NCR, who was identified as the son of the late Senior Constable Ben Misob, was behind the wheel of the ill-fated vehicle.
The tragic accident claimed the life of Bobby Marau, a resident of Chunggrimbu in Arabaka LLG, Middle Ramu District, and a highly regarded CPU officer who had volunteered to assist the police in maintaining peace within the community.
The untimely demise of Bobby Marau has left the community and his colleagues in mourning.
The Middle Ramu District Police Department extends sincere condolences to the Marau family and the entire community of Chunggrimbu during this challenging time.
The incident also resulted in injuries to two passengers, Joe Salo (36) and Adolf Misob (23) from Sempi village, Rempi NCR.
Both injured individuals have been transported to Modilon General Hospital for medical attention.
Preliminary investigations led by PPC Baim suggest that the driver lost control of the vehicle while approaching Murinas Bridge, causing it to veer into a drain.
Tragically, the accident was found to be alcohol-related, according to law enforcement officials on the scene.
Misob, fled the scene immediately after the incident and is currently in hiding.
Despite this, law enforcement has identified him, and efforts are underway to apprehend him.
An arrest will be made promptly following the completion of the post-mortem examination on the deceased.
Meanwhile the Middle Ramu District Police Department appeals to the community to provide any information that may assist in locating the driver.
Additionally, it underscores the importance of refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.